STRIPLV DINING

 

Vintner Grill
By Vegas Food Nerd


Nestled innocently inside a Summerlin office building complex is this hidden gem of a restaurant—The Vintner Grill.  If you want a restaurant that has spot-on cuisine and service, then Vintner Grill is worth venturing to no matter where you are in the Las Vegas valley. Vintner Grill does a lot of business, so even on off days I suggest you make a reservation for inside seating or, when weather permits, outside on its gorgeous patio.

Entering the restaurant feels like you’ve instantly left the desert and been transported to the Hamptons. If Ina Garten had walked in next to us with Geoffrey, I wouldn’t have been surprised. Bright whites and greens highlight the design of the space. The centerpiece inside is its beautiful classic-looking bar in the center of the restaurant, with gorgeous dark wood accents and a fully top-shelf bar with gaming. Vintner Grill is laid out so well that no matter where you sit it feels intimate and quiet, making it a very romantic place to dine.

On a recent visit, my husband and I decided to split a few lunch entrees and a nice crisp bottle of white wine. We started with their sweet butter lettuce salad with warm brie, carrots, cherry tomatoes, and an orange balsamic vinaigrette. I think butter lettuce doesn’t get enough recognition. This salad was fresh and delicate and topped off perfectly with a small warm, crispy disc of fried brie. Next up we shared a meatball soup with shreds of escarole, small pasta and topped with fresh micro greens. It was so good I had to stop myself from licking the bowl clean. Finally, we ended our meal with the Mediterranean sea bass with parsnip puree, sautéed artichokes, baby carrots and a pesto mint sauce. It was an expertly balanced dish with beautifully balanced flavors. On top of loving all of the food, we were knocked out by the stellar service that we received while dining. We dined during a hectic lunch rush, and all the staff attended to us like were V.I.P.’s. Even the hostess made the rounds and made sure our wine glasses were full and that we were enjoying our meal.

We ordered a la carte, but on my next visit I have to try their power lunch special. For $25 you get a choice of one appetizer, one entree and a selection of dessert. I suggest that you venture outside the Strip and try this true Las Vegas gem that will surely to be swarming with real Las Vegas players.  You will be glad you discovered Vintner Grill. Now go and eat something.